Hey guys, first time poster and I just have a question for anyone who is studying or has studied a PhD.

I am a 1st year PhD student and am only a matter of months in, I am just wondering what you did to find a rhythm of doing work and staying motivated ? I ask this because I’m feeling like I’m just not doing any work or can get into a rhythm of doing a decent amount of work daily.

Some background: I always wanted to do a PhD but just presumed I would later in life, but then opportunity arose sooner. I started this PhD after I had graduated from my Masters (taught). My PhD topic is a continuation of my Masters (dissertation) so I have the ground running already. My supervisor has got this great faith in me that I don’t actually seem to see in myself, as I have had staff at my uni come up to me recently and ask “are you ... who is working with ... (supervisor) I’ve heard great things about you” (I had her for my masters project, so we’re well acquainted). And it was she that encouraged me to apply. I really enjoy researching and gaining knowledge as I research, however for some reason I can’t get my rhythm or motivation going?

Prior to even applying i had a long time off, just for myself to get my head back mentally strong after suffering from deep mental health problems during my Masters so academia has been the last thing on my mind. No that I’m back in academia, I’m like ok....?

I’m used to having deadlines with 3 week intervals and surrounded by peers doing I guess the ‘same question’. Now that I’m left trying to find my own pace I just can’t? So this then leads to worries of my capabilities of doing this PhD and if I made the right decision etc.